In one of my Next Gen stories, I see Flitwick as an old man a bit on the barmy side, but I think this chapter has changed my perception of him forever. There was something heart-breaking about the way he remembered everyone, particularly Severus. I don't think I've ever read a story where a member of the staff considers him to be their friend, and it made me sort of teary.

I'm a bit at loss for words with this story, so I'm going to move on to the next chapters before I start to babble, but this is amazing.

Also, side note, but I love the fact that Mrs Norris' tail reaches up to Flitwick's nose. Filch's appearance here slipped in perfectly, and I don't think I've ever enjoyed reading about him as much as I did here.

Which brings me to my next point: what I find so incredible about this is the way you humanise characters who were never given much space to flesh out. Everything is spot on, and most of what I read is quickly becoming my head cannon.

Author's Response: Hi! I'm glad this changed your idea of Flitwick, and that the story gave him some depth. I was originally going to write about Filch, but somehow Flitwick seemed like a more pensive character who would have been scarred by seeing the students he was supposed to protect killed. I'm glad you liked the addition of Snape as well, and I imagined that since they worked together for several years there would be some attachment. Also, Flitwick seems the type to feel guilty for hating and doubting Severus the last year of his life.

I'm so glad you liked Flitwick's characterization, and I really enjoyed imagining the space that he inhabits and what it must be like being that small. Thank you so much once again for this really lovely and thoughtful review! :D